
The Astro Ben Podcast
Ben Gamble
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Top 10 The Astro Ben Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Astro Ben Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Astro Ben Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Astro Ben Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Kate van Dam: Marine Corps attack helicopter pilot, now strategic leader in the space industry with SkyFi
The Astro Ben Podcast
02/05/25 • 30 min
In this episode, sponsored by Sky Fi, Ben journeyed with Kate Van Dam from her days as a Marine Corps attack helicopter pilot to her current role leading strategy at SkyFi. They explore SkyFi's mission to democratise access to geospatial data, touching on the ethical implications, privacy concerns, and the revolutionary potential of this technology. Kate shared insights on how her military background shapes her strategic vision, how SkyFi navigates the evolving space industry landscape, and the role of AI and machine learning in transforming geospatial analysis. They also discussed upcoming SkyFi projects and the next frontier in commercial space technology. Kate also discusses “Austin 4 America” and tells people how to get free tickets!
This weeks episode is sponsored by Sky Fi.
Check them out: https://skyfi.com/
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:48 Introducing Kate Van Dam - frome Helicopter Pilot to SkyFi
06:48 A “Ariel view” of the world
09:40 The accessibility of pictures anywhere from space and mass use of technology
13:00 What is hyper spectral imaging and other uses of SkyFi
14:48 Increase in commercial activity and priorities for customer
18:40 Integrating AI and ML and security concerns
22:28 Upcoming projects for SkyFi (update mentioned here: https://skyfi.com/en/blog/planet-launches-single-order-tasking-powered-by-skyfi )
24:42 Austin 4 America - free tickets here! https://www.austin4america.org/
27:03 Kate’s personal thoughts about Space
29:03 Wrap Up & Socials
Follow SkyFi:
Website: https://www.skyfi.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skyfi.app
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skyfi-imaging/posts/?feedView=all
Austin 4 America: https://www.austin4america.org/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

Camille Wardrop Alleyne: Ed.D. Founder | CEO | Rocket Scientist | Speaker | Humanitarian
The Astro Ben Podcast
11/14/24 • 35 min
In this episode, Ben explores the extraordinary journey of Dr. Camille Wardrop Alleyne, a trailblazer in the field of aerospace engineering. Camille reflects on her impactful career at NASA, where she led key human spaceflight programs and advanced groundbreaking science missions. She shares insights into her work at Arusha Space, promoting space-based solutions for global sustainability, and her passion for STEM education for young women through The Brightest Stars Foundation.
They discuss her Trinidadian upbringing, her journey to becoming one of the few women of colour in senior leadership at NASA, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in space exploration. This episode is a testament to Camille’s belief in the transformative power of education, the boundless opportunities of space, and her enduring mission to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
This weeks episode is sponsored by AIDAA.
Check them out: https://www.aidaa.it/
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
01:01 AIDAA
01:48 From Trinidad to NASA
05:45 Arriving at NASA for the first time
06:47 No social media
07:36 NASA career
13:26 Space industry is changing
15:24 Arusha Space
17:00 Picking “the dream team”
18:45 Private/Public Partnerships in the US and elsewhere
20:04 Current projects
21:12 Future of space exploration/what inspires Camille!
23:55 Why Space?!
25:41 The Brightest Stars Foundation
29:10 Advice to get into the industry (for non Math/Science students)
31:13 Engaging with non Space fairing nations
34:20 Wrap Up and Socials
Connect with Dr. Camille Wardrop Alleyne:
Arusha Space
Website: https://arushaspace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arusha.space/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arushaspace/
Brightest Stars Foundation
Website: https://www.brighteststarsfoundation.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brighteststarsfoundation/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

Maynard Okereke (the Hip Hop M.D): A trailblazing Science Communicator and STEM advocate
The Astro Ben Podcast
02/14/24 • 37 min
In this episode, we have the privilege of diving into the world of Maynard Okereke, better known as the Hip Hop M.D., a dynamic science communicator and STEM advocate. Ben and "Hip Hop" explored Maynard's journey from civil engineering to award-winning SciComm, highlighting his passion for blending humour, education, and creativity. They discussed the importance of representation in the STEM fields and the role of storytelling in inspiring future generations. Maynard shared his unique perspective on bridging the gap between science and entertainment, emphasising the need for inclusivity and empowerment in our pursuit of knowledge. As they wrapped up, Maynard left us with a powerful vision for a future where every child in a classroom has access to the wonders of space, igniting curiosity and fostering a deeper connection to the cosmos.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
01:00 Who is the Hip Hop MD?
02:44 Fascination with the cosmos
05:53 Going to Space/Overview Effect
09:34 Importance of Storytelling
13:42 Challenging stereotypes and ensuring representation in STEM
18:44 Importance of role models
22:50 Impact of Hip Hop Science
26:50 Future of space education/Artemis/vision for future of classroom
34:28 Final thoughts/Upcoming children’s book!
36:40 Wrap Up and socials
Connect with Maynard Okereke, Hip Hop M.D:
#HipHopScience
Website: www.HipHopScienceShow.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/hiphopscienceshow
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HipHopScienceShow
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

Dr. Doug Corrigan: physicist, biochemist, and molecular biologist, and is the author of the book “The Author of Light.”
The Astro Ben Podcast
11/25/22 • 38 min
Dr. Doug Corrigan is a physicist, biochemist, and molecular biologist, and is the author of the book “The Author of Light.” As a Graduate Fellow, he worked with NASA on microgravity experiments that flew aboard the Space Shuttle. Later in his career, Dr. Corrigan launched a biotech company that developed tools to help the pharmaceutical industry discover new antiviral drugs. He is an avid innovator, and has developed award-winning concepts for new medical devices, 3D printing technologies, cellular assays, nanotechnologies, sensors, and new materials.
In this episode Ben and Doug discuss the properties of light, the existence of God and poly molecular health.
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:
Spaced Ventures: https://www.spacedventures.com/ to invest shares of actual space startups!
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:22 This weeks sponsor Spaced Ventures
00:54 Dr Doug Corrigan
01:58 Fascination with the cosmos
03:57 The Author of Light: Did God reveal his identity in the physics of light (You can buy Doug’s book here) https://www.amazon.com/Author-Light-Reveal-Identity-Physics/dp/B08KH97THM/
09:15 The Big Bang
12:56 Pushback from Academia about God in Science?
15:47 Bio tech company
18:02 Polymolecular Health
25:20 Experience with NASA
34:24 Twitter
36:14 Wrap up and socials
Follow Dr Doug Corrigan
Website: https://sciencewithdrdoug.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ScienceWDrDoug
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

Greg Hodgin, Ph.D: CEO of ZC Institute
The Astro Ben Podcast
01/26/24 • 41 min
In this episode, we delved into Dr. Greg Hodgin's groundbreaking work at ZC Institute, where the fusion startup is exploring the possibilities of quantum spacetime distortion for micro-scale fusion and, eventually, faster-than-light warp drives. The "quantum hack" approach, collaboration with research institutions, and the ambitious timeline outlined by Dr. Hodgin shed light on the potential future of space travel!
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:35 Introduction to Greg Hodgin
00:56 ZC Institute
03:10 Experimental
03:30 What Greg is describing/showing - click here (slide 4-10) https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/197sfzxkAXvi7GjrS72qLPoiQ4UzmCwWE/edit?exids=71471483,71471477#slide=id.p6
09:05 FTL (Faster Than Light)
14:11 Technical overview
21:10 Quantum Hack
27:47 Limitless Power
31:30 Could this be scaled with billionaire backing?
37:30 Dare Mighty Things (and smaller things)
40:10 Wrap Up and Socials
Connect with Greg Hodgin:
Website: https://zcinstitute.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-hodgin/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

Dr. Michaela Musilova: Astrobiologist, Speaker, Analog Astronaut and Author.
The Astro Ben Podcast
04/10/24 • 45 min
In Episode 97, join us as we journey into the world of astrobiology and space exploration with Dr. Michaela Musilova. Michaela has been the Commander of over 30 simulated missions to the Moon and Mars, in collaboration with NASA and many international organizations. She is currently Global Faculty at the International Space University, Ambassador for Space ScAvengers and the Head of Research of NEEDRONIX. As an astrobiologist and analog astronaut from Slovakia, Dr. Musilova shares insights into her groundbreaking research and the importance of diversity within teams. Discover her visionary project, Astro Seven Summits, and how she's breaking barriers in space exploration right here on Earth!
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:52 Into to Michaela Musilova
01:10 The Eclipse
03:25 Astro Seven Summits Project
06:18 Hi Seas
13:44 How would we ACTUALLY live on Mars?
22:02 Selecting teams
26:42 Lessons learnt
34:35 Science communication
35:10 Michaela’s story
40:30 Where are the Aliens?
43:46 Wrap Up & Socials
Connect with Dr. Michaela Musilová:
Website: https://michaelamusilova.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_michaela
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astroMichaela/
X: https://twitter.com/astro_Michaela
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michaela-musilova/
Support Astro Seven Summits: https://chuffed.org/project/astrosevensummits
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

Dr Harry Cliff: Author & research physicist at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider
The Astro Ben Podcast
12/20/23 • 35 min
Harry Cliff is a particle physicist and former stand-up comedian specialising in making science accessible and fun. Harry is a research physicist working at the cutting-edge of science at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider. His latest book (Space Oddities) explores a number of exciting anomalies, and asks whether they suggest a revolutionary new scientific age, or if we might be so desperate to see something new that we risk seeing effects where there are none...
In this episode Ben and Harry bond discuss his new book (and anomalies like the Hubble Tension), the synergies between stand up comedy and science communication and what is Early Dark Energy?
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
01:05 Intro to Dr Harry Cliff/Christmas vibes
01:58 Upcoming Trip - Work/Play
03:03 Upcoming book:
05:04 The Hubble Tension
08:24 Dark Energy/Matter/Early Dark Energy?
11:50 Researcher at CERN
17:16 Underfunded physicists?
21:15 Stand Up comedian experience
27:30 Quick Fire Question
32:37 Wrap Up’s and Socials
Follow Dr Harry Cliff
Website: https://www.harrycliff.co.uk/
X: https://twitter.com/harryvcliff
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbgme1XF_U51KPbwCrL-XQQ
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
(NEW - YOUTUBE): www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/

In episode 99, we had the privilege of hearing the remarkable journey of Dr. Eiman Jahangir, Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University and aspiring astronaut. From being a finalist for NASA's Astronaut Candidate program to winning a ticket to space through a raffle with MoonDAO, Dr. Jahangir's story is a testament to the power of persistence and the limitless possibilities of space exploration. Winning a ticket to space from over 2,200 participants, his journey serves as an inspiring reminder that dreams can indeed take flight. Tune in to hear more about his extraordinary adventures and the exciting future that lies ahead.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:00 Introduction to
00:49 Lucky Numbers!
01:40 MoonDao and how it will get Eiman to Space
06:50 How Eiman entered the raffle
08:40 Navigating Crypto
11:10 Applying for NASA
15:24 Space Tourism - health barriers
18:33 Phycological impact on Space Tourism
22:10 Analogue astronaut experiences
23:44 Blue Origin timeline and launch prep
25:50 Personal aspirations for the experience
29:52 Wrap Up and Socials
Connect with Dr Eiman Jahangir:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrEJahangir
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drejahangir
X: https://twitter.com/DrEJahangir
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/Gambleonit

Deborah Sass: Co-Founder of Space Hero
The Astro Ben Podcast
06/04/21 • 35 min
SPACE HERO is a global casting show searching for the next generation of space explorers. The winning candidate of Space Hero will be launched into Earth's orbit and live aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for up to 10 days on a Private Astronaut Mission. It will be the biggest prize ever to be given away on a TV show – a $55m ticket to the ISS!
In Episode 11, we hear from co-founder of Space Hero, Deborah Sass, who admits to not knowing what the ISS was a few years ago, to now building a global company to get a 'normal' person there in 2023!
00:17 Intro to episode/summary of last weeks episode
01:31 What is Space Hero?
02:14 Introducing Deborah
02:46 Why Deborah lives on Ibiza
04:10 How Deborah got from traditional media to Space Hero
06:00 Ben cries about having his phone stolen
06:40 How Deborah meet CO-founder Thomas?
07:57 What is the ISS?
10:42 Ben is slightly jealous of Space Hero’s concept
11:05 So what is Space Hero?
11:43 What will the competition involve?
13:06 Is Space Hero like X-Factor? Do people vote?
14:06 Deborah's analogy - chubby guy from Carphone Warehouse that wants to be an opera singer
15:15 Is diversity and inclusion a factor in the competition?
19:00 What if all the extremely well qualified people apply?
21:40 What is Space Hero really and where is it going to be streamed?
23:23 Why is Space Hero head quarters in London?
23:51 What is going to be the biggest challenge in getting Space Hero going?
26:34 Compared to Inspiration 4 and how big could ‘space based’ reality shows be?
28:30 How high are the barriers and what are Space Hero Insiders?
30:34 Anything new to announce?
31:50 Thanks Deborah!
32:13 Wrap Up
Social Media
Website: https://www.spacehero.org/
Twitter: https://www.spacehero.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spacehero/?viewAsMember=true
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spaceheromedia/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/space_hero_media/
Mentions
Space Diversity Education Satellites Astronomy space exploration NASA career interplanetary Earth SpaceX Science Rockets Science Education Diversity Inclusivity Engineer Masters Space Rocket Science Space Educator School students astronaut astronauts exploration equity postgrad postgraduate Inspiration Apollo Mission Neil Armstrong Blue Origin teacher astroben hero spacehero tv competition spacetravel comp television ISS ESA
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
Website (coming soon): www.astroben.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gambleonit?lang=en
Please subscribe and rate - Ad Astra!

Nicole Stott: American engineer, retired NASA astronaut, artist, and author
The Astro Ben Podcast
07/05/24 • 46 min
In this milestone episode, we had the honour of speaking with Nicole Stott, a retired NASA astronaut, artist, and author. Nicole shared her inspiring journey, including her space missions on ISS Expedition 20 and 21, and STS-128 and STS-133. We explored her unique experiences, such as participating in the first live tweet-up from space and painting with watercolour in microgravity. Nicole also discussed her post-NASA work, including her book "Back To Earth" and her co-founding of the Space for Art Foundation. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.
OUTLINE:
Here’s approximate timestamps for the episode.
00:14 Intro to Nicole Stott
01:00 Episode 100/how Ben and Nicole met
02:35 Impact of astronauts
05:27 Females in space
10:00 Favourite mission?
13:32 Painting in space
16:50 Role of art and creativity in space
19:40 Polaris Dawn & SpaceX/Public Private Partnerships
24:00 Artemis
27:20 Bringing benefits of space
28:05 “Back to Earth” https://www.npsdiscovery.com/book-back-to-earth
31:44 Seeing Earth from space
35:40 Sharing Experiences
37:10 Blue Origin’s vision for the future
38:48 Cosmic perspective
41:37 Final thought from Nicole - “Stay curious!”
44:54 Wrap up and socials
Connect with Nicole Stott:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_nicole & https://www.instagram.com/spaceforartfoundation/
Website: https://www.npsdiscovery.com/
Stay connected with us!
Use #Astroben across various social media platforms to engage with us!
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@astrobenpodcast
Website: www.astroben.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrobenpodcast/
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Astro Ben Podcast have?
The Astro Ben Podcast currently has 115 episodes available.
What topics does The Astro Ben Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Nasa, Exploration, Space, Houston, Astronomy, Scientific, Earth, Podcasts, Stars, Education, Discovery, Science, Universe and Engineering.
What is the most popular episode on The Astro Ben Podcast?
The episode title 'Andrew Parris: Former NASA contractor and President of The Inspired 24' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Astro Ben Podcast?
The average episode length on The Astro Ben Podcast is 37 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Astro Ben Podcast released?
Episodes of The Astro Ben Podcast are typically released every 7 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of The Astro Ben Podcast?
The first episode of The Astro Ben Podcast was released on Jan 29, 2021.
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